Loves cucumbers - hence the name of sushi "kappa-maki."

At Ukiyo-Japan.pl, we've already explored many fascinating yōkai – from exotic tsukumogami (animated household objects) to bizarre creatures like the brudoliz and shirime. But today, it's time to turn to a true star of Japanese folklore – kappa, the water demon and "child of the river," who stands as the most recognizable yōkai in Japanese culture. The kappa appears in both ancient legends and modern pop culture – it can be found in anime, films, games, and even in the "Mario" series, where it hides as the character Koopa Troopa. Its image can be seen in Japan on official signs warning against swimming in rivers, as well as on notices promoting the protection of aquatic environments.

The kappa is a creature full of contradictions – it can be both a terrifying monster and a charming, playful being. It appears as a turtle-like humanoid with green skin, webbed fingers, and a distinctive water-filled dish (sara) on its head that is the source of its power. If someone manages to trick the kappa and spill the water from its dish, the creature becomes powerless. While known for its mischief and for dragging people into the water, the kappa is sometimes helpful – sharing knowledge of medicine and even assisting in irrigation of rice fields. In legends, the kappa can be just as dangerous as it is honorable, with a weakness for etiquette and polite gestures that is often exploited.

From the art of ukiyo-e in the Edo period to contemporary animations, the kappa remains an iconic figure in Japanese folklore. Its images appeared in Katsushika Hokusai’s “Hokusai Manga,” and today we see it in anime like “GeGeGe no Kitarō.” The kappa also features in games such as “Ōkami,” “Nioh,” and various other popular video games. It symbolizes the Japanese spirit – a little menacing but always ready for playful pranks. We meet it on restaurant signs, in the names of sushi rolls (kappa-maki), and even as an environmental mascot promoting the protection of water resources. It’s time to take a closer look at this fascinating character.

What Does the Name “Kappa” Mean?

In Japanese, kappa (河童) literally means "child of the river." The name reveals that we're talking about a creature that’s somewhat contradictory: on one hand, innocent like a child, and on the other, capable of drowning not just the toughest samurai but entire herds of horses. The kappa is a water spirit, a demon that dwells in rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. Some say that kappa is proof that even water in Japan can have a personality – and in the kappa's case, it’s a rather capricious one.

Other Regional Names

Like many creatures of folklore, the kappa has as many names as there are rivers and ponds in Japan, or at least as many prefectures. In different regions of the country, locals had their own names for this water sprite:

• Kawatarō (川太郎) – used mainly in Kansai and Chūbu regions, meaning “river boy,” reflecting the yōkai’s character as a mischievous, somewhat wild youth.
• Enkō (猿猴) – seen in Chūgoku and Shikoku, meaning “monkey spirit,” pointing to the kappa's resemblance to a furry, monkey-like creature.
• Hyōsube (ひょうすべ) – popular in Kyūshū, where this version is often depicted as more unpredictable and dangerous.
• Medochi (めどち) – used in Tōhoku, where the kappa is known for being a rather malevolent creature.
• Mizushi (水虎) – from Hokuriku, literally meaning “water tiger,” which sounds far more dangerous than a green boy with a dish on his head.

This wealth of names reflects the diversity of local legends and beliefs about the kappa – in each prefecture, it is a little different, yet remains a constant presence as an integral part of Japanese mythology.

The History of the Yōkai Kappa

Refferences

Although everyone today knows the kappa by one name, things were different in the past. The earliest written references to the kappa appeared during the Heian period. One of the oldest legends about this creature can be found in the 15th-century dictionary “Kagakushū,” where the kappa is described as “old otters that transform into water spirits.” This definition suggests that the kappa wasn’t always considered a creature with a childlike appearance, but rather as a dangerous, wild beast.

In the 17th century, in the famous work "Wakan Sansai Zue" by Terajima Ryōan, the kappa appears as a kawatarō – a hairy, monkey-like creature. It’s interesting to note that for centuries, the kappa was thought of as a creature resembling mammals, such as monkeys or otters, rather than amphibians or reptiles. It was only in the 18th century, when Edo (modern-day Tokyo) began to dominate culturally and in publishing, that the kappa's image began to change into a more turtle-like form (in line with the traditional imagery of the region).

With the help of ukiyo-e woodblock prints, such as the famous “Hokusai Manga,” this new version of the kappa began to gain popularity across the country. A figure with a green body, a turtle shell, and webbed feet became the standard, and the word "kappa" replaced other, older names. You could say that the kappa became famous thanks to good publicity and the power of art and printmaking, much like modern-day celebrities gracing the covers of magazines.

This history and folklore show that the kappa is not just a creature from Japanese legends, but a reflection of the Shinto fascination with water, spirits, and the mysteries of nature.

Folklore

The kappa is not just a character from Japanese legends but also a reflection of the Shinto fascination with water, spirits, and the mysteries of nature. The history of the kappa is as intricate as the meandering rivers of Japan, and the folklore surrounding this creature reaches deep into the past, intertwining with myths of water deities, spirits, and demons.

Although the kappa gained its current popularity during the Edo period, the first mentions of water spirits in Japan can be found as early as the 3rd century in the Chinese chronicle "Gishi Wajinden." This ancient text describes the peoples inhabiting Japan and includes stories about water spirits resembling kappa – creatures that controlled rivers and lakes. It is possible that Chinese legends about "water tigers" (水虎, mizuko) influenced later Japanese depictions of kappa.

Interestingly, in the two oldest Japanese chronicles – "Nihon Shoki" (720 AD) and "Kojiki" (712 AD) – there are no direct references to kappa, but there are stories about water deities and dragons. For centuries, people in Japan believed that spirits inhabited rivers and lakes, spirits capable of bringing rain or causing drought. Perhaps the kappa evolved from these ancient beliefs in water deities that were neither good nor evil – simply capricious, like nature itself.

Heian and Kamakura Periods

During the Heian (794–1185) and Kamakura (1185–1333) periods, the kappa began to take on a more defined shape in Japanese folklore. At that time, water spirits were often associated with agriculture and fishing – the two pillars of the economy in those days. The kappa was believed to be a spirit inhabiting rivers and lakes that could both help farmers by controlling water and harm them by causing floods.

Stories of dragons dwelling in watery depths were also popular during this period. In some legends, the kappa appears as a servant of a dragon, taking care of a specific body of water on its behalf. There were also stories about kappa helping farmers with irrigation – but only if they were properly honored. If not, the farmers were said to suffer the consequences of their stinginess.

Edo Period (1603–1868)

During the Edo period, the kappa finally rose to the height of its popularity. Thanks to the development of literature and art, particularly ukiyo-e woodblock prints, the kappa’s image became more standardized. It was during this time that the kappa transformed from a monkey-like creature into a being resembling a turtle with a dish on its head.

In 1715, an illustration of the kappa as a hairy, monkey-like creature appeared in Terajima Ryōan’s encyclopedia "Wakan Sansai Zue." Before this, the kappa was often described as a mammal, something between a monkey and an otter. However, with the dominance of Edo culture, a new image of the kappa emerged – green, with webbed feet, a turtle shell, and a beak.

The great ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai also depicted the kappa with a characteristic turtle shell in his work known today as "Hokusai Manga." This image quickly spread across the country, and the green color of the kappa’s body likely resulted from associations with frogs – inhabitants of wetlands, much like the kappa.

At that time, the kappa frequently appeared in kusazōshi – popular illustrated books that can be seen as predecessors of today’s manga. In Edo literature, the kappa was often portrayed as a comical character, and its frightening nature was somewhat softened.

Meiji Period and Modern Times

During the Meiji period (1868–1912) and beyond, the kappa gradually lost its fearsome reputation, becoming more of a humorous symbol of folklore and local traditions. In Kurume, on the island of Kyūshū, there is the Suiten-gū shrine, one of the most important sites associated with kappa legends. This shrine is believed to protect against water disasters and honors the kappa as a guardian of water.

In Japanese villages, the kappa was often seen as the spirit of drowned people, and locals held protective rituals to ensure peace near the water. The kappa had elements of both a protector and a predator – a dangerous guardian of the waters who was best treated with respect.

With the rise of modern media, the kappa became a part of pop culture, appearing on signs warning of danger near water. Although today’s kappa is often portrayed as a friendly and comical figure, its history still carries a shadow of the dangerous river spirits of the past.

What Is the Kappa Like?

The kappa combines human, animal, and (since the Edo period) grotesque elements, and its appearance is so distinctive that it is impossible to mistake it for any other creature. Imagine a being that looks like a cross between a turtle, a monkey, and an amphibian, with slightly demonic features – that’s the kappa.

What Does It Look Like?

The kappa is most often depicted as child-sized, both in terms of height and body structure. It usually measures between 100 and 150 centimeters, making it slightly shorter than an adult human but significantly stronger than its childlike appearance suggests. The kappa is far from cute like a small child – on the contrary, it has an unsettling quality.

The most distinctive feature of its appearance is the concave dish on top of its head – called 皿 (sara) in Japanese. This dish is the kappa’s magical source of power. It must always be filled with water, preferably from its native body of water, as this is what grants the kappa its superhuman strength. Spilling the water from the dish spells disaster for the kappa, weakening or even killing it.

The kappa also has a beak, the shape and color of which vary by region – in some stories, it resembles a bird’s beak, while in others, it’s flatter, like that of a turtle. The kappa’s skin is typically green, although in some legends, kappas appear with red or brown skin, possibly linked to regional differences. This skin is described as either scaly, like a turtle’s shell, or slippery, like that of an amphibian.

The kappa also possesses webbed hands and feet, giving it exceptional swimming abilities. Its fingers seem made for navigating water, making it a skilled diver. In some stories, the kappa also has a tail – sometimes resembling a fish’s fin, other times more monkey-like. Meanwhile, the turtle shell on its back, which appears in later depictions, emphasizes its connection to water and aquatic life.

How Does the Kappa Behave?

The kappa is a creature full of contradictions. On one hand, it is extremely honorable and adheres to the rules of etiquette – if someone bows before it, the kappa will always return the bow. However, this politeness can be its downfall, as bowing causes the water in the dish on its head to spill, leading to a loss of strength. This exaggerated politeness and obsession with honor make the kappa dangerous, yet it can also be easily outwitted.

Kappa love feats of strength, and their greatest passion is sumo wrestling. They enjoy making wagers – if they win, they take something valuable from their opponent (including their life), but if they lose, they offer a treasure or promise not to attack passersby.

Despite their sense of honor, kappa also have a dark side. They can drown people and horses, lure their victims underwater, and even steal a mysterious organ called the shirikodama – said to be located in the human anus. According to legend, the shirikodama is the source of a person’s soul, and the kappa can extract it with a single motion (yes, really – check Wikipedia).

Despite their penchant for dark pranks, kappa are not always purely evil. In some stories, they help people by sharing knowledge of medicine, such as the art of bone-setting. Kappa may also teach farmers the art of field irrigation if they demonstrate courage and wisdom. It's also worth mentioning that kappa are big fans of cucumbers – their favorite treat, which is reflected in sushi known as kappa-maki.

Thus, the kappa is a multifaceted creature – from a dangerous river spirit, to a sumo enthusiast, to a slightly eerie helper of farmers. Regardless of its form, one thing is certain – if a kappa appears in a story, expect a sharp twist in the action.

The Legend of the Kappa’s Handprint
河童の手形

(Kappa no Tegata)

– a legend from Fukuoka Prefecture, Edo period (1603–1868)

In a distant village near the Chikugo River in Fukuoka Prefecture during the Tokugawa shogunate, the people lived in constant struggle with the capricious nature of the river. The village was small, surrounded by rice fields. Life among the thatched-roof huts began each day with the sound of drums from the Suiten-gū shrine, dedicated to the gods of water. Although diligent and devoted, the villagers lived in constant fear of the mysterious forces of the river. Rumors circulated about the kappa – a water spirit known for drowning children and horses, and sometimes even abducting adults to extract their mythical shirikodama.

One summer afternoon, as the golden sun reflected off the river’s surface like threads of gold, a young boy named Hachiro set out to catch fish for his family. The village was exceptionally quiet that day, and the only sounds were the splashing of water and the rustling of reeds. At one point, Hachiro felt a strange sensation – as if someone was watching him. Suddenly, something resembling a green, scaly figure emerged from beneath the water. It was a kappa, smiling broadly and reaching out its webbed hands toward the boy. Hachiro tried to flee, but the kappa’s powerful arms stopped him.

Remembering old tales, the boy bowed deeply, and the kappa – known for its refined etiquette – returned the bow. The water in its dish spilled out, and the kappa collapsed, powerless. Seeing his would-be attacker so vulnerable, Hachiro considered escaping, but he felt pity for the helpless creature lying on the grass. Instead of running, he decided to help. He filled the kappa’s dish with water from the river. The creature regained its strength and, filled with gratitude, looked at the boy with respect. “You saved me, so from now on, I shall be your servant,” the kappa said, extending its webbed hand as a sign of friendship.

The kappa proved to be a true ally. It helped the villagers irrigate their fields, shared knowledge of medicinal herbs, and taught the art of setting broken bones. With the kappa’s help, the village flourished, and the people forgot their old fears. In gratitude for its new life, the kappa pressed its handprint onto a special parchment kept in the shrine, as proof of the pact made. This parchment became known as the Kappa no Tegata – the kappa’s handprint, a symbol of peace between humans and the river’s creatures.

This legend was passed down through generations, and each year, on the day of the festival, the village offered cucumbers – the kappa’s favorite snack – at the Suiten-gū shrine. To this day, the kappa’s handprint remains a symbol of wisdom and reconciliation with nature, reminding people of a time when the river’s monster became a guardian spirit and a friend of children.

The Legend of the Kappa and the Farmer from Mizuochi
水落の河童の話

(Mizuochi no kappa no hanashi)

– a legend from Miyazaki Prefecture, Edo period

In the ancient village of Mizuochi in Miyazaki Prefecture, there lived a farmer named Tarō who worked daily in the rice fields near the river. One day, he noticed that the water in the irrigation ditches had disappeared, and his crops began to wither. Worried, Tarō decided to find out what was happening. As he approached the riverbank, he saw a strange creature with green skin, a dish of water on its head, and webbed hands – it was a kappa.

Seeing the farmer, the kappa called out, “I’ve redirected the water to my lair in the river! If you want it back, you must defeat me in sumo!” Knowing the tales of the kappa’s incredible strength, Tarō felt uncertain. However, he quickly remembered that kappas are honorable and must bow if someone bows to them first. Tarō agreed to the match. Before starting, he bowed deeply to the kappa. The kappa, bound by the rules of etiquette, returned the bow. The water in the dish on its head spilled out, and the kappa lost all its strength. Tarō easily defeated the kappa in sumo.

“You’ve won!” the kappa exclaimed, lying exhausted on the ground. “Please, don’t kill me. In exchange for sparing my life, I will return the water to your fields and share my knowledge of rice cultivation.” Tarō agreed and helped the kappa refill the dish on its head with water. True to its word, the kappa restored the water to the irrigation ditches and revealed the secret to a bountiful harvest.

From that day on, Tarō’s fields were always fertile, and the river’s water never disappeared again. The villagers came to regard the kappa as a guardian spirit of the river and made annual offerings of cucumbers – the kappa’s favorite food – to ensure successful harvests and protection from floods.

The Legend of the Kappa from Kitano Tenman-gū
北野天満宮の河童の話

(Kitano Tenman-gū no kappa no hanashi)

– a legend from Kitano (Edo period)

During the golden age of Heian-kyō (modern-day Kyoto), when imperial power was at its height and courtly splendor reached legendary proportions, dark secrets lay hidden beneath this great culture. Near the Kitano Tenman-gū shrine, dedicated to the scholar Sugawara Michizane (more about him here: Tenjin – Thanks to his talents, he got a high position despite being an outsider. They destroyed him. He avenged himself from beyond the grave.), there was a small river known for its strange phenomena. Locals whispered that a dark deity – a kappa – resided in its depths, guarding secrets connected to the shrine.

One summer, a young farmer named Takehiko lost his best cow, which disappeared into the murky waters of the river. Desperate, as his family’s survival depended on the animal, Takehiko ignored warnings about the capricious kappa and ventured into the wild, forested areas along the river, armed with nothing but his courage and a bamboo stick.

In the darkness of night, Takehiko saw tracks leading to the water. Suddenly, a green, scaly figure emerged from the murky river – a kappa with a concave dish on its head, a sharp beak, and webbed hands. The kappa gazed at the farmer with wild eyes, and before Takehiko could react, the creature lunged at him, trying to drag him underwater.

Takehiko knew of the kappa’s dark reputation – it was obsessed with the shirikodama, a mythical organ said to reside in the human body and represent the soul. However, he also knew that the kappa was an honorable creature, so he quickly called out, “Oh, great kappa, I challenge you to a sumo match! If you win, I’ll surrender and give you my shirikodama! But if you lose, you must return my cow!”

The kappa’s eyes gleamed with a sinister joy – sumo was its favorite pastime. The battle began on the riverbank. Although small, the kappa possessed tremendous strength, and its movements were quick and unpredictable. Yet Takehiko knew a trick. During the fight, he pretended to stumble, causing the kappa to bend low to attack. At that moment, the farmer grabbed the dish on the kappa’s head and struck it with all his might, spilling the water.

The kappa fell to the ground, helpless, and fear filled its eyes. “Please, don’t kill me!” the kappa begged. “I promise to return your cow and never harm anyone from your village again.”

Takehiko agreed, on the condition that the kappa swore this oath on the sacred waters of Kitano Tenman-gū. The kappa made this promise, and from that time on, it never harmed another person or animal. The tale spread throughout Heian-kyō, and people began offering tributes at Kitano Tenman-gū to appease the kappas living in nearby rivers.

Kappa in Japanese Art and Literature

Ukiyo-e

During the Edo period, kappas became popular motifs in ukiyo-e art, which depicted both everyday life and fantastical creatures. One of the most significant artists to capture kappas in his works was Katsushika Hokusai (more about him here: Hokusai: The Master Who Soothed the Pain of Life's Tragedies in the Quest for Perfection). In his famous series "Hokusai Manga" (1814), Hokusai portrayed kappas as creatures with turtle-like shells, concave dishes on their heads, and long, webbed fingers. This depiction had a tremendous influence on the later image of kappas as turtle-like beings with amphibious features, dominating how kappas were perceived in the Edo period.

Another prominent ukiyo-e artist who captured kappas was Utagawa Toyokuni. In his work "Kazusa: Shirafuji Genta" (1843–1847), Toyokuni illustrated the legend of a sumo match between a human and a kappa. The motif of kappas in sumo wrestling became popular, and many illustrations from the Edo period depicted scenes in which people exploited the kappas’ honorable nature to defeat them.

Yet another artist who portrayed kappas was Utagawa Hirokage. In his work "Edo meisho dōgezukushi" (1859), Hirokage depicted a kappa attempting to pull a thunder god into the river at Ryōgoku Bridge. Hirokage portrayed kappas as dangerous yet humorous figures, entertaining viewers and serving as a warning about the dangers of water.

Literature

Kappas also appear in Japanese literature, often serving as metaphors for human flaws and social issues. The most famous literary work featuring kappas is the satirical novel "Kappa" written by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa in 1927. The novel tells the story of a man who finds himself in a land of kappas and discovers that their society mirrors human absurdities. In this book, kappas are used as a tool for social and political criticism, making it one of the most significant examples of social commentary in Japan during the early 20th century.

Many traditional folktales also depict kappas as creatures who either help or punish people, depending on the circumstances. Stories such as "The Legend of the Kappa from Kitano Tenman-gū" illustrate both their dark side and their potential to aid human communities.

Kappa in Kabuki and Nō Theater

Motifs related to kappas have also appeared in traditional Japanese theater, both in kabuki and nō (though more often in the former). In kabuki theater, kappas are often portrayed as humorous characters who entertain the audience. One example is the kabuki play "Kappa no Kigen" (河童の機嫌), which depicts a kappa struggling with human-like problems, serving as a source of comedy as well as a form of social commentary and a moral lesson.

In nō theater, kappas appear as water deities connected to local beliefs. Plays such as "Mizu no Kamigami" depict kappas as river guardians who can either bless or curse people, depending on their actions. The kappa motif in nō theater often references ancient Shintō beliefs, in which water was seen as both a creative and destructive force.

Kappa on 21st Century Screens

Anime

Kappa is one of the most frequently depicted characters in Japanese folklore, making their image prevalent in many anime and manga. One of the most well-known examples is the classic series GeGeGe no Kitarō by Shigeru Mizuki (more about him here: The Life of Manga Legend Shigeru Mizuki: How Passion Can Overcome the Trauma of War and Suffering). In this series, kappas appear as one of many yōkai – supernatural creatures inspired by Japanese folklore. The kappas in this tale often play the role of somewhat comedic but also threatening beings, reflecting their dual nature in tradition.

Another example is the world of Pokémon, where several characters are inspired by kappas. Ludicolo and Lotad resemble turtle-like creatures with a plant on their heads, referencing the characteristic water-filled dish that kappas possess. Golduck, although it resembles a duck at first glance, also shares traits with kappas, such as webbed hands and a love of water.

In Natsume Yūjinchō (known as Natsume’s Book of Friends), kappas appear as traditional yōkai. This series emphasizes folklore and the relationship between humans and spirits. Here, the kappa is portrayed as a lonely, somewhat melancholic figure.

In the anime Sarazanmai (2019), kappas take on a new, surreal significance. Created by Kunihiko Ikuhara, the series tells the story of three boys who are transformed into kappas and must extract the shirikodama from other people to regain their human forms. Sarazanmai draws on the darker side of kappa myths, blending it with themes of desires, secrets, and emotional bonds.

Video Games

In video games, kappas often appear as enemies, bosses, or playable characters. In the iconic game Ōkami, the kappa appears as a mythological creature that the main character, the wolf goddess Amaterasu, must interact with or confront. This game incorporates many elements of Japanese folklore, including the image of the kappa as a guardian of water.

In the Shin Megami Tensei series, kappas are frequently depicted as demons that can be recruited as personas. In this series, kappas retain their classic folkloric traits, such as the water-filled dish on their heads and their love of strength challenges.

Finally, in the king of video games – Mario. In the Super Mario series, kappas appear in a modified form as Koopa Troopas – turtle-like enemies whose name phonetically echoes the folkloric kappa. Although Koopa Troopa resembles a turtle more than a traditional water demon, its distinctive shell can be interpreted as an echo of the later depictions of kappas with a shell. The main antagonist of the series, Bowser (Daimaō Koopa), also draws inspiration from Japanese legends, combining the traits of a dragon and a turtle, reflecting the mythical powers of water creatures.

Film

Kappas also appear in Japanese cinema, both as main characters and supporting roles. In the film Summer Days with Coo (2007) directed by Keiichi Hara, a kappa named Coo is discovered by a boy in modern-day Tokyo. The film portrays the kappa as a gentle but lost creature in the modern world, serving as an allegory for the challenges young people face in finding their place in society.

In the Pom Poko (1994) production by Studio Ghibli, there is a brief cameo of a kappa. While the film mainly focuses on tanuki, mischievous Japanese raccoon dogs, the presence of a kappa is a nod to other creatures from Japanese folklore.

Mascots and Symbols

Kappas have gained significant popularity as mascots and symbols in Japan. Notably, advertisements for Kizakura sake frequently feature kappas as humorous elements. In these commercials, kappas are often portrayed as cheerful and harmless figures engaging in various antics.

Kappas are also widely used as symbols of water protection and ecological initiatives. In some regions of Japan, warning signs near rivers and lakes feature images of kappas, cautioning against the dangers of swimming in deep water. Kappas serve as ambassadors of environmental conservation, reminding people to respect nature and keep water clean. They are a common motif in ecological presentations, banners, and events related to water safety or environmental protection.

Conclusion

Kappa is one of the most recognizable yōkai in Japanese folklore – a creature that straddles the line between horror and humor, warning and playfulness. Whether portrayed as ravenous demons drowning people or as kind spirits teaching irrigation and medicine, kappas symbolize the power of nature that humans have tried to negotiate with for centuries. An interesting fact is that in traditional beliefs, kappas had natural enemies such as monkeys – it was believed that a monkey's presence would deter kappas from harmful actions, a notion used in protective rituals in some regions of Japan.

The modern presence of kappas in Japanese culture reminds us of their role as guardians of rivers and ponds, as well as their dual nature – monsters and benevolent spirits. Today, kappas are not only a part of folklore but also a symbol of ecology and water conservation, used in campaigns aimed at raising awareness of water safety. Their image, from dark tales of the past to humorous characters in anime, remains one of the most vibrant and evolving symbols of Japanese culture, bridging ancient beliefs with the modern world in a fascinating and contrasting way.

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"Strong Japanese Women"

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    未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

  Mike Soray

   (aka Michał Sobieraj)

未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

Mike Soray

(aka Michał Sobieraj)

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